Skillstalk

7 side jobs you can do to generate additional income

By Ben Madden

If you’re looking to make a bit of extra cash for a rainy day, or save up for something special, then a side job might just be the ticket. Whether you’re already working full-time and want to fast-track things, or you’re looking to pick up extra work, we’ve put together some side jobs that can help you achieve your financial goals sooner.

Are side jobs necessary?

Side jobs are a fantastic way to break up the monotony of your main job or make your working schedule more interesting. If you’re someone that’s wanting to try out something new, or earn a bit extra, then a side job is a great idea – but it’s important to work out whether it’ll suit your lifestyle. After all, you don’t want to put too much pressure on yourself with a side job, so proper planning and scheduling can go a long way.

Side jobs are also a wonderful way to improve your skills and put yourself in situations that you wouldn’t experience during your main career. If you’re looking for a chance to upskill, and make extra money while doing so, then finding a side job that complements your current role/experience is a great option.

What are some good side jobs?

Want to get an idea of the side jobs that are out there for you? We’ve put together some examples of side hustles you can pick up, as well as the course you can complete to get yourself job-ready!

Job #1 – Marketer/Copywriter

Like the sound of working with words, and helping people to promote their businesses? Becoming a freelance marketer/copywriter might be just the ticket!

Hourly rate: $40-$60

Job #2 – Programmer

Enjoy working with computers, and want to work on developing software? A side job in programming is a terrific way to upskill!

Hourly rate: $30-50

Job #3 – Counsellor

If you’re someone that’s naturally empathetic, and you want to help people, counselling may prove to be extremely rewarding.

Hourly rate: $50+

Recommended Course: CHC51015 - Diploma of Counselling

Job #4 – Web Designer

web designer working from home

Have an eye for design, as well as IT? Combine the two by picking up web design projects, and help people bring their brands to life!

Hourly rate: $50+

Job #5 – Social Media Marketer

Spend a lot of your time on social media? Use the experiences learned from those years effectively by helping brands evolve their social media strategy so they can share their message with new audiences!

Hourly rate: $40+

Recommended Course: Short Course in Social Media Strategy

Job #6 – Cyber Security Specialist

As a cyber security specialist, you can help businesses improve their defences against malicious attacks from both internal and external sources. It’s a rewarding way to test your IT skills out in real-life situations.

Hourly rate: $55+

Job #7 – Start your own business

If you’ve got an idea for the next game-changing business, then it’s time to get to work. However, before you do, you’ll want to pick up some business-related skills to help you kickstart your journey.

Hourly rate: N/A

Recommended Course: BSB40120 - Certificate IV in Business

How to choose the right side job

Choosing a side job can be daunting, but it’s an extremely effective way to work out where your career interests lie. To work out what side job would suit you most, you should assess potential options based on:

Your interests – would the job be related to one of your passions?
Your schedule – how time-intensive would the job be?
Earning potential – will the job make you the money you’re hoping for?
Is there room for growth – could this side job turn into your main income one day, if you enjoy it?

By measuring each job against a set of criteria, you’ll be confident in your decision, whatever you choose. The only thing left to do is throw yourself into the side job and give it your best shot!

How to succeed in your side job

man working from home happily

It’s important to know why you’re getting a side job, so you don’t lose sight of your goals. A side job is great for making some extra money, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to embrace different sides of your personality that you might not get to explore in your main career. Some steps you can take to succeed in a side job include:

Setting aside time for your side job – this way, you’re not trying to fit it around other things, but instead making it part of your routine
Talking with people in the same industry as you – problems shared are problems halved. Get into a side job with friends/family, and you won’t lose motivation.
Jump into a growing industry – if you’re able to pick up a side hustle in an industry on the rise, you’re more likely to enjoy the ride!

Ready to upskill so you can get a side job?

Upskilled’s courses provide practical, job-based skills to get you to where you want to go sooner, whatever industry you’re in, or looking to move to. You can find out more about our courses here, or you can get in contact with Upskilled’s education consultants on 1300 009 924 to discuss how you can make a side job work for you and your lifestyle!

This article should not be taken as expert financial advice. Please consult a financial specialist for further advice on your circumstances.

Ben Madden Ben Madden is a Melbourne-based writer, who loves all things music and sport. He’s a long-time and long-suffering Essendon supporter, and if you’re looking for any music recommendations, he’s your guy.